Dutch licorice, called drop, is among the most varied licorice traditions in the world, spanning sweet and salty (zoute drop), soft and hard, and shapes from coins to cats. The Netherlands has one of the highest licorice consumption rates anywhere, and drop has a devoted following among expats and enthusiasts.
Sweet vs salty
Sweet drop is approachable and widely liked; salty drop (zoute drop), flavored with salmiak, has the savory, slightly numbing bite that defines the enthusiast end of the category. Stocking both lets you serve the curious newcomer and the dedicated fan.
Textures and shapes
Drop ranges from soft and chewy to firm and hard, in shapes from coins and diamonds to the iconic cats (katjes). Variety of texture and shape is part of the appeal. Browse the full licorice category and Dutch lines to build a section.
FAQ
What is Dutch drop?
Drop is the Dutch word for licorice, covering a wide range of sweet and salty, soft and hard styles in many shapes.
What is salty Dutch licorice?
Zoute drop is salty licorice flavored with salmiak (ammonium chloride), giving a savory, slightly numbing taste prized by enthusiasts.